Magic of holidays stems from psychological need
>>Print ViewPublication Date: 12/09/2009
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One professor believes the magical atmosphere surrounding the Christmas season is a result of a psychologically intrinsic need to take part in something bigger than the self.
After studying the science behind altruism, William Graziano, a professor of psychology, has determined it is not completely selfless or void of ulterior motivation.
“Humans have two deeply seated basic motives. One of these is to be part of something beyond the self,” Graziano said. “It could be argued that the Christmas season is reminding people about community and the opportunity to have our own needs met by thinking of others.”
As the first snowflakes – inevitably absorbed by enthusiastic tongues – begin to fall from the sky, Kelsey Sager, a freshman in the College of Education, is one of many Boilermakers whose testimonies match Graziano’s scientific diagnosis of the heart. Her heart soaring and eyes lit with excitement, Sager finds the sensory overload of Christmas a pleasant reminder of the way the season makes her feel.
“I start counting down at the end of summer and never take Christmas songs off of my iTunes playlist,” Sager said.
Like Graziano, Sager attributes the magical atmosphere of the Christmas season to the satisfaction of giving and communing with family.
“Seeing everyone happy is my favorite part of the holidays!” Sager said.
As in one of her favorite Christmas movies, “Elf,” Sager admits to calling people Cotton-Headed Ninnymuggins and sometimes, she even answers the phone with, “Buddy the Elf, what’s your favorite color?”
Claire Wilmoth, a freshman in the College of Liberal Arts, shares Sager’s enthusiasm. Wilmoth believes the “magical quality” of Christmas is contagious and that the mystery of Santa is “captivating for all ages.”
“Yes, I do still believe!” Wilmoth said.
Wilmoth’s favorite part of the season is “being able to spend uninterrupted time with my family.”
“It’s the only solid two days of the year when no one has any other obligations except to each other,” Wilmoth said. “There’s always great food, gaming, conversations and overall celebration and it's just so uplifting and relaxing!”
Quoting from “Elf,” Sager reminds us that the most effective way to reach out to someone this holiday season is to wear our happy hearts with conviction.
“The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear,” Sager said.
Wilmoth adds to Sager’s spiritual chorus with a few words of her own.
“It is Christmas in the heart that puts Christmas in the air,” Wilmoth said.